Juwan Miller (12) of the K-W Titans converts on a layup late in the second quarter of K-W's game versus the London Lightning in London last Thursday. (Photo by Dan Congdon)

K-W suffers another loss in turbulent beginning to NBL season 

The K-W Titans continue to struggle early in the National Basketball League of Canada season, dropping another decision to a very good London Lightning squad on Thursday night, 113-99. 

The Titans came out strong in the first quarter, collectively shooting 47.6% from the field to take a narrow 27-26 lead into the second quarter. Two-thirds of K-W’s shot attempts in the opening frame came from beyond the arc as the team hit seven of 14 attempted threes, led by Akeem Ellis’ three triples. In the second half, London’s shooters found their stride and poured in 33 points to take the lead heading into halftime. AJ Gaines had eight points on just four shots in the quarter for London. 

In the third, K-W played one of its best defensive quarters of the season, holding London to just 18 points on 7-17 shooting. Unfortunately for the Titans, they failed to pull away in the game, scoring just 27 points of their own due to a porous 6-22 shooting quarter. The difference was K-W going 15-17 from the free-throw line, and London only getting four attempts. As a result, London held on to the lead heading into the fourth quarter, 77-75. 

The final frame saw K-W unravel defensively, giving up 36 points and committing seven fouls to allow London to find its offensive stride. The Lightning didn’t faulter the opportunity, and eventually put the game away, 113-99. Justin Moss led the Titans in scoring with 28 points and 11 rebounds, while Gaines was a handful all night, finishing with 31 points. 

The loss drops K-W’s record to 4-11 this season, and London’s improves to 12-3. The Titans sit three and a half games back of Windsor for third-place in the four team Central Division. K-W will return to action this Thursday night when it plays host to the St. John’s Edge, with tip-off set for 7:00 pm at The Aud.